“Let there be light”…Illumination in DC’s Streets

“The spiritual man who has been thus illumined does not limp or leave the path, but bears all things. Glimpsing our true country from afar, he puts up with advertises; he is not saddened by the things of time, but finds his strength in God. He lowers his pride and endures possessing patience through humility. That true light which enlightens every man who comes into the world bestows itself on those who reverence it, shining where it wills, on whom it wills and revealing itself according to the will of God the Son.” -John the Serene, Bishop

There’s been significant chatter lately about “pop-ups” in DC; townhouses that have been expanded upward to increase square footage available for rent/sale. Opinions about these outgrowths of contemporary architecture are divided. Of course they raise an ever present question in our fair metropolis: what to do about the height restrictions?

Compared to most major American cities, Washington is relatively low-rise. This limits the number of people who can live, work …and pay taxes… in the city. Popular legend tells us that no building may be higher than the statue of Freedom over the Capitol Dome. That’s not entirely true. Most buildings in Washington are actually limited by a ratio between their height and the width of the street on which they’re built. Consequently, broad avenues have taller structures than more narrow side streets. The goal of the restrictions: “Let there be light!”

I love DC’s short stature. Structures exist on a human scale. Residents can enjoy the clear light of day shining in blue skies. …and if the humility of our local buildings exalts the dignity of our national Capitol, well that’s not such a bad thing either.

As someone who’s lived in both New York and Washington, I can tell you that having access to natural light and the blue sky in DC has a significant effect on my day. It does more than lift my spirits. It contextualizes my city experience. In New York, sky scraper canyons dominate and contain citizens. In Washington, the presence of light and greenery integrally woven into our street-experience connects the city to a wider world that serves man rather than oppressing him.

Light forms a huge part of Catholic spirituality. Jesus is himself described as the light of the human race (Jn. 1:4-ff). Likewise, Catholics are called on to be the light of the world (Mt 5:14). Cities should be places of light; the light of art, music, learning and bright smiles exchanged between citizens. It’s a complex thing to increase that light, but a good place to begin might be the presence of the sun gracing SHORT buildings, filling our streets and daily experiences.